Life On The X

About Life On The X

What shapes a person's life? Is it one defining moment—or the countless experiences, decisions, victories, and tragedies that leave their mark over time? Life on the X is a podcast that goes beyond the headlines to explore the real stories of the men and women who serve in some of the world's most demanding professions. Hosted by Sal Cortez, President & CEO of the International School of Tactical Medicine, each episode features honest, unscripted conversations with military veterans, law enforcement officers, firefighters, paramedics, executive protection professionals, tactical medics, dispatchers, and other first responders whose lives have been shaped by extraordinary experiences. In emergency medicine and tactical operations, "the X" refers to the point of injury—the place where lives are changed in an instant. But this podcast isn't just about critical incidents. It's about the people behind the profession. Their purpose. Their sacrifices. Their failures. Their victories. And the lessons they've carried with them long after the moment has passed. You'll hear firsthand accounts of life-changing calls, split-second decisions, leadership under pressure, resilience after trauma, and the human side of careers that most people only see through news headlines or Hollywood. Whether you've worn a badge, served in the military, worked on an ambulance, protected others, or are simply fascinated by the mindset of those who thrive in high-stakes environments, Life on the X offers authentic conversations that educate, inspire, and challenge the way we think about service, leadership, courage, and purpose. Expect discussions on topics including: Tactical medicine Law enforcement Military service Firefighting and EMS Executive protection Leadership under pressure Critical incidents Survival and resilience Mental health and recovery Training and preparedness Faith, family, and personal growth Lessons learned from lives lived on the X Every guest has a story. Some are inspiring. Some are heartbreaking. Many have never been told publicly—until now. These are not scripted interviews. They are genuine conversations with remarkable people who have faced extraordinary circumstances and are willing to share what they learned so others can benefit from their experiences. If you enjoy meaningful conversations, compelling true stories, and insights from those who have dedicated their lives to serving others, subscribe to Life on the X and join our growing community. Real people. Real stories. Real lessons from Life on the X.

Publisher

International School of Tactical Medicine / Sal Cortez

Category

education · government

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

29 Jun 2026

Latest episode

5 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

10 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   5 Oct 2026

   Episode # 10 - Norm Sells

   In this episode of Life on the X, Sal Cortez sits down with California Highway Patrol Officer Norm Sells, whose career has taken him from the back of an ambulance to serving as a CHP SWAT operator, sniper, and paramedic. Norm shares how his early years as an EMT and paramedic shaped his approach to public service and ultimately led him to the California Highway Patrol. The conversation explores CHP’s integration of Advanced Life Support (ALS) into law enforcement, the evolution of tactical medicine, and the importance of preparing officers to perform lifesaving interventions in high-stress environments. Sal and Norm also take listeners inside the world of SWAT operations, discussing tactical medicine, warrant service, dignitary protection, team coordination, drones, training, and decentralized leadership. Norm explains why every member of a tactical team must be capable of making good decisions when circumstances change and why mastering the fundamentals under stress matters more than simply having advanced equipment. The conversation also gets personal as Norm discusses the challenge of balancing the demands of a high-performance law enforcement career with being a husband and father. He shares how Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has become both a form of decompression and an invaluable tool for policing—teaching him to remain calm while uncomfortable, solve problems under pressure, and become more confident during physical confrontations. The episode closes with reflections on careers in EMS and public service, the value of continually developing new skills, and why EMS can provide an incredible foundation for careers in law enforcement, fire service, medicine, the military, and beyond. Takeaways EMS provides an exceptional foundation for careers in public safety. Integrating medical capability into law enforcement can save lives. Tactical medicine requires both medical knowledge and tactical awareness. Teamwork and communication are critical in high-stakes operations. Drones have become an increasingly important tool in modern policing. Strong tactical teams continually train, evaluate, and learn from operations. Leadership can come from every level of a SWAT team. Jiu-jitsu can improve confidence, control, decision-making, and composure under stress. Success in public service comes from mastering the basics and performing them well under pressure. Chapters 00:00 From EMS to Law Enforcement 05:56 Training and Development in EMS 12:03 Advanced Life Support in Law Enforcement 18:00 The Role of SWAT and Tactical Medicine 23:56 Dignitary Protection and Team Coordination 33:10 The Rise of Drones in Law Enforcement 35:59 SWAT Operations and Training Dynamics 42:20 Balancing Work and Family Life 45:48 The Impact of Jiu-Jitsu on Policing 56:35 Reflections on Career Choices and Growth #LifeOnTheX #CHP #CaliforniaHighwayPatrol #SWAT #TacticalMedicine #SWATMedic #TacticalEMS #TEMS #LawEnforcement #Paramedic #EMS #FirstResponders #PoliceTraining #JiuJitsu #ISTM

2. 

   23 Sept 2026

   Episode # 9 - Allyn T. Goodrich

   In this episode of Life on the X, host Sal Cortez sits down with Allyn T. Goodrich, a veteran Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department officer, SWAT operator, author, and advocate for first-responder wellness. Goodrich shares his journey from small-town Nevada to nearly two decades in law enforcement, including patrol, undercover investigations, intelligence, and SWAT. He opens up about the cumulative impact of critical incidents, an officer-involved shooting that became a personal breaking point, and the importance of peer support, resilience, and finding healthy ways to heal. Goodrich also recounts responding to the October 1, 2017 Las Vegas mass shooting and the lessons that followed in tactical medicine and mass-casualty preparedness. That experience helped inspire his book, October Strong, a fictionalized story honoring the first responders, medical personnel, and everyday people impacted by the tragedy. Proceeds from the book support The Wounded Blue, which serves injured and disabled law enforcement officers. TOPICS INCLUDE: • The cumulative stress of a first-responder career can surface years later. • Peer support starts with being present and recognizing when someone is struggling. • Goodrich shares how an officer-involved shooting became a breaking point in his life. • Finding “your thing”—faith, family, fitness, therapy, writing, horses, or another healthy outlet—can be an important part of recovery. • October 1 produced lessons for tactical medicine and mass-casualty response. • Writing October Strong became an unexpected therapeutic outlet. • Goodrich’s advice: Don’t be afraid to walk through doors—and be curious, not judgmental. CHAPTERS 00:00 – Introduction 01:04 – Growing Up in Ely, Nevada 07:07 – The Road to Law Enforcement 10:31 – Patrol & Crime Saturation Team 13:19 – Jiu-Jitsu & Defensive Tactics 16:07 – Undercover, Intelligence & SWAT 19:55 – The Hidden Weight of the Job 23:23 – LVMPD Wellness & Peer Support 29:53 – “My Brother’s Keeper” 33:06 – Gates to Healing 40:59 – The Shooting That Became a Breaking Point 46:03 – After an Officer-Involved Shooting 51:03 – Life & Training on SWAT 53:42 – October 1, 2017 58:27 – Tactical Medicine & Lessons Learned 1:02:27 – Tactical Physicians & Medics 1:14:47 – Writing as Therapy 1:24:01 – October Strong & The Wounded Blue 1:35:28 – Don’t Be Afraid to Go Through Doors Life on The X: website: http://lifeonthe-x.com (https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUZZTVljRUthSjdJd0tQNEw0U2ZTaWptd0l1THxBTl9pYzRlMkhmTHdIRE41NXB5Q0RsLWI1T2xIY01LLVRCeTdPZjdtVjFqT1A5MDdDWFI5RmVPYjNMYUdEVEU0RHBPaXl2Z2FwUnhmNFpnMWZSU3hUeElBSDBMNUYtcWJCNWE0&q=http%3A%2F%2Flifeonthe-x.com%2F&v=aG_4akDfG-8) facebook: lifeonthexpodcast instagram: @lifeonthe_x youtube: @lifeonthe-x Life on the X podcast is sponsored by: The International School of Tactical Medicine. "The best training in the worst places" website: https://tacticalmedicine.com/ (https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUZZTVljRjNIUTJJOU1IOGkxMmxIMnFlajRNTnxBTl9pYzRkMUdLVjY4Y2VxNmpZLUlKeGdFNXg3aWF6STB5Nm50OUVMSmJwR2VodWlSUHhmU3RObkVSX0FoakllSGVLcGpVOWgyTXR4c1FLNFN4ZEpGdkZOSlRMUVp3NkF2QUZE&q=https%3A%2F%2Ftacticalmedicine.com%2F&v=aG_4akDfG-8) facebook: International School of Tactical Medicine instagram: @istm_tacmed youtube: @ISTM_tacticalmedicine #LifeOnTheX #SWAT #LasVegasMetro #FirstResponder #LawEnforcement #TacticalMedicine #OfficerWellness #OctoberStrong

3. 

   9 Sept 2026

   Episode # 8 - Jason Bassett

   In this episode of Life on the X, host Sal Cortez sits down with Jason Bassett, a retired Sacramento Police Department captain and veteran firearms instructor, to discuss law enforcement training, firearm proficiency, responsible handgun ownership, and the importance of continued training. Jason shares his journey from serving in the U.S. Navy to a nearly 24-year career with the Sacramento Police Department. His assignments included patrol, traffic, academy instruction, department rangemaster, firearms instructor, training management, and ultimately captain—all while remaining actively involved in firearms instruction. The conversation explores law enforcement firearms training, qualification standards, and why simply qualifying with a firearm isn't the same as being truly proficient. Jason and Sal discuss the importance of repetition, realistic practice, sound decision-making, and continuing to develop skills throughout an officer’s career. The discussion highlights why professional firearms training should extend beyond shooting at a paper target. Effective training includes firearm safety, marksmanship, reloads, malfunction clearing, movement, decision-making, and understanding when a firearm should—and should not—be used. Jason and Sal also discuss ISTM’s Foundational Pistol Course, designed to build safety, confidence, and proficiency for new and developing shooters. The course covers practical firearm skills, movement, cover vs. concealment, and basic Tactical Emergency Casualty Care (TECC) concepts such as tourniquet use, chest seals, self-aid, and lifesaving care. Takeaways Qualification does not equal proficiency. Firearms training should be ongoing for law enforcement and civilians. Professional training is essential for safe, responsible firearm use. Firearm selection should prioritize fit, control, and proficiency. Training should include movement, reloads, malfunctions, and decision-making. Understanding cover vs. concealment and basic emergency medical care can save lives. Chapters 00:00 Background & Military Career 04:32 Transition to Law Enforcement 07:19 Law Enforcement & Firearms Training 09:09 Training Standards & Proficiency 19:33 Responsible Handgun Ownership 25:52 Firearms for Home Defense 32:32 Importance of Professional Training 34:04 Law Enforcement & Civilian Training 43:41 Foundational Pistol Course & TECC 54:47 Cover vs. Concealment 01:07:30 Training for Civilian Firearm Owners Life on The X: website: http://lifeonthe-x.com (http://lifeonthe-x.com) facebook: lifeonthexpodcast instagram: @lifeonthe_x youtube: @lifeonthe-x Life on the X podcast is sponsored by: The International School of Tactical Medicine. "The best training in the worst places" website: https://tacticalmedicine.com/ (https://tacticalmedicine.com/) facebook: International School of Tactical Medicine instagram: @istm_tacmed youtube: @ISTM_tacticalmedicine Learn more about the International School of Tactical Medicine and the Foundational Pistol Course at tacticalmedicine.com (http://tacticalmedicine.com). Like, comment, share, and subscribe to Life on the X for more conversations on tactical medicine, law enforcement, preparedness, and professional training. #LifeOnTheX #FirearmsTraining #GunSafety #LawEnforcement #PistolTraining #CCW #TacticalMedicine #ISTM

4. 

   31 Aug 2026

   Episode # 7 - Reynolds Kairus, MD

   Dr. Reynolds Kairus shares his remarkable journey from a challenging upbringing in New York City to becoming a medical doctor. He discusses the impact of his early life experiences, the positive influences that shaped him, and the challenges he faced in his youth. The conversation also delves into the high-stress nature of EMS work and the issue of burnout among first responders. Dr. Reynolds Kairus shares his journey from overcoming personal challenges to becoming a public servant and health advocate. He emphasizes the importance of leadership by example and the need for authentic spokespersons in mental health initiatives. His experience in medical school, financial struggles, and career transitions highlight the resilience and determination required to succeed. Dr. Kairus also provides advice for young individuals and discusses his book 'The 911 Ready Protocol' aimed at supporting first responders. Takeaways Resilience and determination can lead to remarkable personal transformation. The high-stress nature of EMS work can lead to burnout and emotional strain, highlighting the need for support and understanding within the first responder community. Leadership by example is crucial in addressing burnout and mental health issues in public service. Resilience, determination, and faith are essential in overcoming personal and professional challenges. Becoming a first responder and pursuing a career in public service can provide unprecedented access and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Chapters 00:00 Early Life in New York City 03:26 Positive Influences and Challenges 33:30 EMS Work and Burnout 38:59 Leadership by Example and Authentic Spokespersons 43:39 Overcoming Personal and Financial Challenges 50:58 Transition to Health and Wellness Initiatives 01:05:05 Advice for Young Individuals and The 911 Ready Protocol Dr. Kairus' linktree: https://linktr.ee/nycstreetsmd Dr. Kairus' book: https://www.amazon.com/911-READY-PROTOCOL-Handle-Confidence/dp/B0GZRJDQT6/ref=sr_1_1?crid=33RT39HKDPAPS&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.UT96z891pkVV1fzgsEshNJEUS810-kpBYy1PUMR_dIwtW3vn6MtzuynFMfa4qOGo.pUA69qD7F9nMhvL8fHZGFwXjNv7khgPzBnCxlBlk2_o&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+911+protocol&qid=1788159250&sprefix=the+911+proto%2Caps%2C536&sr=8-1 (https://www.amazon.com/911-READY-PROTOCOL-Handle-Confidence/dp/B0GZRJDQT6/ref=sr_1_1?crid=33RT39HKDPAPS&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.UT96z891pkVV1fzgsEshNJEUS810-kpBYy1PUMR_dIwtW3vn6MtzuynFMfa4qOGo.pUA69qD7F9nMhvL8fHZGFwXjNv7khgPzBnCxlBlk2_o&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+911+protocol&qid=1788159250&sprefix=the+911+proto%2Caps%2C536&sr=8-1) ---------------------------------------- Life on the X features authentic conversations with military veterans, law enforcement officers, firefighters, paramedics, executive protection professionals, tactical medics, and others who have faced extraordinary moments that shaped their lives. Real people. Real stories. Real lessons from Life on the X. Life on The X: website: http://lifeonthe-x.com (http://lifeonthe-x.com) facebook: lifeonthexpodcast instagram: @lifeonthe_x youtube: @lifeonthe-x Life on the X podcast is sponsored by: The International School of Tactical Medicine. "The best training in the worst places" website: https://tacticalmedicine.com/ (https://tacticalmedicine.com/) facebook: International School of Tactical Medicine instagram: @istm_tacmed youtube: @ISTM_tacticalmedicine

5. 

   18 Aug 2026

   Episode # 6 - Michael Guirguis, MD

   The conversation covers Dr. Michael Guirguis's journey from aspiring pilot to emergency medicine physician and his experiences in law enforcement and air rescue operation. It also delves into the challenges and experience of flight medicine and the use of whole blood in emergency care. The conversation covers topics, including the importance of whole blood donation, the experience of trauma in emergency medicine, the transition into executive protection, the role of medical support in EP organizations, and the need for legislation in the EMS system. The conversation covers topics related to emergency medicine, executive protection, and the intersection of the two fields. It delves into the challenges of multi-state licensing for medics, the need for national registration, and the complexities of providing medical care in different countries. It also explores the importance of medical components in EP teams, the integration of medicine and security, and the evolving nature of emergency medicine. Takeaways Career transitions and diverse experiences Challenges and experiences in flight medicine Whole blood donation is crucial for emergency medical situations. The experience of trauma in emergency medicine has a profound impact on healthcare professionals. The integration of medicine into executive protection organizations requires specialized training and oversight. Legislation is needed to address the challenges and inconsistencies in the EMS system. Multi-state licensing challenges for medics The integration of medicine and security in EP teams Chapters 00:00 From Aspiring Pilot to Emergency Medicine Physician 02:49 Training and Residency at Loma Linda 05:18 Experiences in Air Rescue Operations 10:33 Challenges and Experiences in Flight Medicine 26:14 Use of Whole Blood in Emergency Care 27:11 The Importance of Whole Blood Donation 28:27 The Experience of Trauma in Emergency Medicine 31:47 Transition into Executive Protection 35:19 Role of Medical Support in EP Organizations 52:49 Need for Legislation in the EMS System 54:11 Challenges of Multi-State Licensing 55:14 National Registration and Licensing 56:23 Providing Medical Care in Different Countries 59:13 The Importance of Medical Components in EP Teams 01:03:19 Integration of Medicine and Security in EP 01:04:23 Evolving Nature of Emergency Medicine Dr. Guirguis' linktr.ee (http://linktr.ee) : https://linktr.ee/michael_guirguis_md (https://linktr.ee/michael_guirguis_md) Life on the X features authentic conversations with military veterans, law enforcement officers, firefighters, paramedics, executive protection professionals, tactical medics, and others who have faced extraordinary moments that shaped their lives. Real people. Real stories. Real lessons from Life on the X. Life on The X: website: http://lifeonthe-x.com (http://lifeonthe-x.com) facebook: lifeonthexpodcast instagram: @lifeonthe_x youtube: @lifeonthe-x Life on the X podcast is sponsored by: The International School of Tactical Medicine. "The best training in the worst places" website: http://tacticalmedicine.com (https://tacticalmedicine.com/) facebook: International School of Tactical Medicine instagram: @istm_tacmed youtube: @ISTM_tacticalmedicine

6. 

   4 Aug 2026

   Episode # 5 - Jim Morrissey

   The conversation with Jim Morrissey covers his background in outdoor education, wilderness medicine, and his role as a tactical medic with the FBI SWAT team. It delves into the evolution of tactical medicine, the role of medics in law enforcement operations, and the need for standardized training and guidelines for tactical medics. The conversation delves into the challenges and complexities of tactical medical training and response, emphasizing the need for standardized training and interdisciplinary coordination. It also explores the role of civilians as first responders and the importance of suspicious activity reporting in preventing targeted violence. The Urban Shield program is discussed, highlighting its impact and the emergence of similar training initiatives. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including the importance of interdisciplinary coordination in mass casualty incident training, the evolving role of tactical medicine, the current terrorist threat environment, and the expansion of the paramedic's role. It also delves into the development of a tactical medicine field guide and the significance of wilderness medicine training. Takeaways Tactical medicine has evolved to include a more integrated and proactive approach, emphasizing prevention and early intervention. The role of tactical medics in law enforcement operations has expanded to include training, assessment, and treatment, with a focus on patient advocacy and medical legal implications. Tactical medical training and response require standardized training and interdisciplinary coordination. Civilians play a crucial role as first responders, and suspicious activity reporting is vital in preventing targeted violence. The Urban Shield program had a significant impact and has led to the emergence of similar training initiatives. Interdisciplinary coordination is crucial in mass casualty incident training The role of tactical medicine is evolving, and paramedics are taking on more expansive roles The current terrorist threat environment presents new challenges, including the use of drone systems Wilderness medicine training can enhance a medic's skill set and knowledge base Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Early Training 02:54 Transition to Tactical Medicine and FBI SWAT Team 10:52 Role of Tactical Medics in Law Enforcement Operations 21:03 Challenges and Future of Tactical Medicine 01:06:45 The Impact and Legacy of Urban Shield 01:15:16 Interdisciplinary Coordination in Mass Casualty Incident Training 01:25:50 The Evolving Role of Tactical Medicine 01:29:52 The Current Terrorist Threat Environment 01:43:00 The Significance of Wilderness Medicine Training Life on the X features authentic conversations with military veterans, law enforcement officers, firefighters, paramedics, executive protection professionals, tactical medics, and others who have faced extraordinary moments that shaped their lives. Real people. Real stories. Real lessons from Life on the X. Life on The X website: http://lifeonthe-x.com (http://lifeonthe-x.com) facebook: lifeonthexpodcast instagram: @lifeonthe_x youtube: @lifeonthe-x Jim's book - https://www.amazon.com/TACTICAL-MEDICAL-FIELD-GUIDE-MORRISSEY/dp/B0716YYVPN (https://www.amazon.com/TACTICAL-MEDICAL-FIELD-GUIDE-MORRISSEY/dp/B0716YYVPN) #LifeOnTheX #TacticalMedicine #TEMS #SWAT #FBI #JimMorrissey #StopTheBleed #RescueTaskForce #EMS #LawEnforcement #FirstResponders #PublicSafety #Leadership #ExecutiveProtection

7. 

   21 Jul 2026

   Episode # 4 - Carlos Ponce

   From Marine Recon to SWAT to Counterterrorism: A Lifetime of Service with Carlos Ponce | Life on the X Podcast The conversation covers Carlos's personal background, military experience, law enforcement career, and involvement in gang suppression. It delves into his upbringing, military training, law enforcement assignments, and experiences with gang activity in Sacramento. The conversation covers a range of topics including car theft, drug enforcement, asset forfeiture, SWAT team involvement, hostage rescue situations, and the importance of tactical medicine in law enforcement and civilian settings. A conversation with Carlos Ponce, a retired law enforcement officer, and Sal Cortez, discussing the importance of behavior analysis, fusion centers, and the role of suspicious activity reporting in preventing threats. Carlos shares insights from his academic background and international training experiences, emphasizing the need for continuous learning and preparedness in law enforcement. Takeaways Military and law enforcement training Involvement in gang suppression Car theft and dismantling operations were prevalent in the Sacramento area, with ties to drug distribution and gang activity. The evolution of tactical medicine and the need for officers to be prepared for providing medical care in high-risk situations. Behavior analysis is crucial in identifying pre-incident indicators of harmful or criminal intent. Fusion centers play a vital role in analyzing trends, providing intelligence, and collaborating with federal partners to prevent and respond to threats. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Background 02:02 Decision to Join the Military and Marine Corps Boot Camp Experience 05:09 Military Assignments and Deployments 09:00 Transition to Law Enforcement and Sheriff's Department Academy 16:10 Work in the Jail and Transition to Patrol 23:11 Assignment to Gang Suppression Team and Involvement in Drug Task Force 53:35 Importance of Tactical Medicine and Officer Preparedness 01:07:00 Behavior Analysis and Pre-Incident Indicators 01:09:16 Role of Fusion Centers 01:11:14 Suspicious Activity Reporting (SAR) and Threat Mitigation 01:16:25 Pre-Threat Leakage and Threat Intervention 01:22:25 Impact of Active Shooter and Targeted Violence 01:26:41 Academic and International Training Experience 01:30:15 Importance of Specific Training and Continuous Learning Life on the X features authentic conversations with military veterans, law enforcement officers, firefighters, paramedics, executive protection professionals, tactical medics, and others who have faced extraordinary moments that shaped their lives. Real people. Real stories. Real lessons from Life on the X. Life on The X website: http://lifeonthe-x.com (http://lifeonthe-x.com) facebook: lifeonthexpodcast instagram: @lifeonthe_x youtube: @lifeonthe-x #LifeOnTheX #CarlosPonce #MarineCorps #MarineRecon #SWAT #LawEnforcement #PolicePodcast #FirstResponders #Counterterrorism #FusionCenter #PublicSafety #Leadership #TacticalMedicine #ThreatAssessment #ActiveShooter #Military #SheriffsOffice #Podcast

8. 

   15 Jul 2026

   Episode # 3 - Dave White

   Retired California Highway Patrol officer Dave White shares his remarkable journey from the United States Navy to the California Highway Patrol, highlighting his experiences, leadership, and commitment to service. His story is one of courage, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication to duty. The conversation covers a range of topics, including the experiences of David White as a Navy Seabee, his transition to civilian life, and his career in the California Highway Patrol (CHP) Air Operations. The discussion also delves into the use of helicopters in law enforcement, search and rescue operations, and the differences between air ambulance and rescue helicopters. The conversation with David White covers his experiences in search and rescue, law enforcement, and real estate. He shares stories of life-saving missions, the challenges of retirement, and the importance of never settling for mediocrity. Topics include: Leadership Navy Seabee Experience Transition to Civilian Life Career in CHP Air Operations Use of Helicopters in Law Enforcement Search and Rescue Operations Differences Between Air Ambulance and Rescue Helicopters Never settle Don't take no for an answer Chapters 00:00 Early Life and Military Service 03:10 Enlistment in the Navy and Career Progression 10:11 Transition to Law Enforcement and Career Growth 15:32 Becoming a Limited Duty Officer and Naval Career 35:02 Comparing Administrative Structures 36:06 Navy Seabee Experience and Transition to Civilian Life 38:48 Career in CHP Air Operations 53:37 Use of Helicopters in Law Enforcement and Search and Rescue Operations 01:06:13 Differences Between Air Ambulance and Rescue Helicopters 00:04 Search and Rescue: A Father's Relief 03:10 Law Enforcement: A Life-Saving Mission 05:53 Retirement and Real Estate: Finding Purpose Life on the X features authentic conversations with military veterans, law enforcement officers, firefighters, paramedics, executive protection professionals, tactical medics, and others who have faced extraordinary moments that shaped their lives. Real people. Real stories. Real lessons from Life on the X. Life on The X website: http://lifeonthe-x.com (http://lifeonthe-x.com) facebook: lifeonthexpodcast instagram: @lifeonthe_x youtube: @lifeonthe-x #Military #LawEnforcement #CHP #USNavy #Veteran #HelicopterPilot #SearchAndRescue #Leadership #FirstResponders #TacticalMedicine #LifeOnTheX

9. 

   7 Jul 2026

   Episode # 2 - Thomas Zizzo

   Sergeant Tom Zizo shares his journey from New York to Los Angeles, shaped by the September 11th attacks, and his commitment to public service. He discusses his experiences, influences, and perspective on leadership and modern policing. The conversation covers various topics related to law enforcement, including patrol functions, career progression, leadership challenges, and tactical operations. It also delves into the complexities of gang enforcement and the importance of tactical emergency medical training. The discussion highlights the evolution of law enforcement practices and the need for cross-training and collaboration among different units and agencies. The conversation covers topics related to the implementation of optics in law enforcement, the impact of officer-involved shootings, and the personal and professional challenges associated with being the child of a public figure. Sergeant Tom Zizzo shares insights into the challenges and experiences of being a law enforcement officer, including the impact of celebrity connections, the importance of counterterrorism training, and the significance of physical and mental health in the profession. Topics include: September 11th Influence Transition from East Coast to West Coast Policing and Public Service Patrol officers may work alone or in pairs, depending on the unit and assignment. Career progression in law enforcement involves transitioning from patrol functions to specialized units and leadership roles. Gang enforcement units collaborate with other divisions and agencies to address criminal activities and ensure public safety. Tactical emergency medical training is essential for law enforcement officers to provide life-saving care in critical situations. Optics implementation in law enforcement Challenges of officer-involved shootings Celebrity connections can lead to unexpected attention and challenges for law enforcement officers. Counterterrorism training is crucial for addressing domestic terrorism and maintaining public safety. Maintaining physical and mental health is essential for law enforcement officers to effectively serve their community and ensure a successful career. Chapters 00:00 Influence of September 11th 25:07 Policing and Public Service 31:41 Leadership Challenges and Career Motivation 45:10 Gang Enforcement and Tactical Operations 01:05:33 Optics Implementation in Law Enforcement 01:34:27 Personal and Professional Challenges 01:42:07 Celebrity Connections and Law Enforcement 01:52:07 Counterterrorism Training and Public Safety 02:02:15 Physical and Mental Health in Law Enforcement Life on the X features authentic conversations with military veterans, law enforcement officers, firefighters, paramedics, executive protection professionals, tactical medics, and others who have faced extraordinary moments that shaped their lives. Real people. Real stories. Real lessons from Life on the X. Life on The X website: lifeonthe-x.com (http://lifeonthe-x.com) facebook: lifeonthexpodcast instagram: @lifeonthe_x youtube: @lifeonthe-x #LifeOnTheX #LAPD #LawEnforcement #PolicePodcast #FirstResponders #Leadership #CounterTerrorism #TacticalMedicine #GangEnforcement #911 #Military #PublicSafety #Resilience #SalCortez #Podcast

10. 

    29 Jun 2026

    Episode # 1 - Rob Young

    Retired police sergeant Rob Young shares the incredible story of surviving the 1989 Cleveland Elementary School shooting before dedicating nearly two decades to a career in law enforcement. In this premiere episode of Life on the X, host Sal Cortez explores Rob's journey from childhood trauma to serving on the front lines as a police officer, including the day he was forced to respond to an active shooter himself. Together they discuss resilience, leadership, tactical medicine, police work, emergency response, trauma, healing, and the life lessons learned through decades of service. Whether you're in law enforcement, the military, fire service, EMS, executive protection, or simply interested in true stories of courage and perseverance, this conversation offers an honest look at what it means to live—and serve—on the X. Topics include: • Cleveland Elementary School shooting • Active shooter response • Law enforcement leadership • Police training • Tactical medicine • Trauma and resilience • Mental health • First responder culture • Service and purpose Life on the X features authentic conversations with military veterans, law enforcement officers, firefighters, paramedics, executive protection professionals, tactical medics, and others who have faced extraordinary moments that shaped their lives. Real people. Real stories. Real lessons from Life on the X. Life on The X website: lifeonthe-x.com facebook: lifeonthexpodcast instagram: @lifeonthe_x youtube: @lifeonthe-x Rob Young website: robyoungspeaks.com (http://robyoungspeaks.com) instagram: @robyoung209 podcast: The Voice of Reason Podcast Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Resilience 06:57 Career in Law Enforcement 13:09 The Impact of the Shooting 19:12 Recovery and Reflection 24:59 Meeting Michael Jackson and Public Attention 35:03 Scotty's Journey: Overcoming Adversity 45:55 The Aftermath: Support and Counseling 53:03 Evolution of Emergency Response 59:09 Returning to Cleveland: A Full Circle Moment 01:09:40 The Weight of Collateral Duties 01:17:41 The Aftermath of the Shooting 01:24:44 The Process After an Officer-Involved Shooting 01:31:53 Support Systems for Officers Post-Incident 01:38:16 Transforming Trauma into Training 01:44:06 Full Circle: A Shared Experience 01:54:16 Navigating Life After Law Enforcement 02:01:26 Finding Purpose Beyond the Badge 02:12:58 Transition landscape.mp4

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